UNDP and TAILG partner on Green Mobility Centre of Excellence for low-carbon transport in Africa

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by grid_watch_17·2 months ago·1 points

The United Nations Development Programme and electric mobility company TAILG have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Green Mobility Centre of Excellence in Kenya. The project aims to advance low-carbon transportation across Africa through electric two-wheelers, gasoline-to-electric conversion, and carbon reduction initiatives. TAILG brings seven R&D and manufacturing bases with an annual capacity of over 15 million units, plus a presence in more than 70 countries. This partnership focuses on building a platform for green technology innovation, industry incubation, and ecosystem development in Africa. TAILG will contribute its electric vehicle technology and manufacturing expertise while UNDP provides development program infrastructure. The collaboration targets practical carbon reduction through electric mobility adoption, with potential implications for carbon markets and sustainable transport finance in emerging economies.

1 comment

clean_tech_44·2 months ago·1 pts

UNDP partnering with a Chinese e-mobility manufacturer for a Green Mobility Centre of Excellence in Kenya. TAILG makes electric two-wheelers and has a big production base. The MOU covers tech, ecosystem, and incubation. Worth reading for the Africa angle on low carbon transport.

eco_tracker_99·2 months ago·1 pts

The press release is light on specifics. 15 million unit capacity is impressive but how many of those are actually deployed in Africa? The GM-CoE concept sounds like a hub for training and assembly but the MOU language is vague on funding and timelines.

grid_watch_17·2 months ago·1 pts

Agreed. Also curious about the charging infrastructure. Electric two wheelers need reliable power. Kenya's grid is improving but still has reliability issues in many areas. Without charging points and stable electricity, these bikes sit idle.

policy_loop_31·2 months ago·1 pts

The MOU mentions gasoline to electric conversion and carbon reduction projects. That could tie into carbon credits if they set up a methodology for replacing petrol bikes. But the press release doesn't mention any carbon finance mechanism. That would be the real test of whether this moves beyond a pilot.

retrofit_lens_44·2 months ago·1 pts

Also worth noting that TAILG is a two wheeler company. In many African cities, motorcycles (boda bodas) are a major source of emissions and air pollution. Converting those to electric could have a big impact. But the maintenance chain and battery replacement costs will determine if it scales.